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Last verified: · Confidence: high
When is heat season in Chicago, and what must landlords provide?
Short answer
Heat season September 15 - June 1: 68°F daytime / 66°F night where the landlord controls heat
Season: Every year from September 15 through June 1
From September 15 to June 1, centrally heated rental units must be kept at least 68°F from 8:30 a.m. to 10:30 p.m. and 66°F overnight; individual heating equipment must be kept in good working order. Check the heating system before September 15.
"The Heat Ordinance applies from September 15 until June 1." chicago.gov
"the indoor temperature is required to be at least 68°F from 8:30 a.m. to 10:30 p.m. and at least 66°F from 10:30 p.m. to 8:30 a.m. for the entire heating season." chicago.gov
"Landlords and building owners face fines of $500 to $1,000 per day, per violation, if they do not supply adequate heat or functioning heating equipment." chicago.gov
Heat season September 15 - June 1: 68°F daytime / 66°F night where the landlord controls heat Verified
Deadline: Every year from September 15 through June 1
From September 15 to June 1, centrally heated rental units must be kept at least 68°F from 8:30 a.m. to 10:30 p.m. and 66°F overnight; individual heating equipment must be kept in good working order. Check the heating system before September 15.
Who it covers: Applies to rental units without individual tenant-controlled heat; if units have individual heating equipment, the landlord must keep it able to maintain 68°F. Fines $500-$1,000 per day per violation.
"The Heat Ordinance applies from September 15 until June 1." chicago.gov
"the indoor temperature is required to be at least 68°F from 8:30 a.m. to 10:30 p.m. and at least 66°F from 10:30 p.m. to 8:30 a.m. for the entire heating season." chicago.gov
"Landlords and building owners face fines of $500 to $1,000 per day, per violation, if they do not supply adequate heat or functioning heating equipment." chicago.gov
Notes: Chicago Department of Buildings Heat Ordinance page (the underlying code section was not snapshotted). Two-pipe heating/cooling buildings have a 64°F rule early and late in the season.
Last verified 2026-10-20 · Confidence: high · Status: verified · Report a correction